Global defence powerhouse BAE Systems will help deliver a new cutting edge space research and development facility as part of a university and advanced manufacturing precinct being delivered at the Western Sydney Aerotropolis.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian was at BAE Systems headquarters in London to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the company, which will ensure NSW leads the nation in developing tomorrow’s scientists, engineers and mathematicians.
“The Aerotropolis we are building around the Western Sydney Airport is a great opportunity for firms around the world to invest in NSW,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“BAE Systems Australia’s interest in NSW as a destination for this research facility is a huge vote of confidence in our economy and our plans for the new airport city.
“This partnership will allow us to create the high tech jobs we need to keep NSW as the number one jobs market in the nation.”
BAE Systems Australia’s Chief Executive Officer Gabby Costigan said the MOU will allow the company to explore the advantages of becoming a part of the innovation precinct at the new airport city.
“Australia has a long history of innovation in the defence industry, and the Aerotropolis in Western Sydney presents a great opportunity to build on that history,” Ms Costigan said.
BAE Systems has a long track record of supporting the Australian Defence Force to maintain a capability edge and the Western Sydney Aerotropolis will be the home of Australia’s future aerospace industry.
Today’s announcement forms part of the NSW Government’s commitment to creating 200,000 jobs in and around the Western Sydney Aerotropolis.
The Aerotropolis will be adjacent to the new 24-hour international (Nancy-Bird Walton) airport at Badgerys Creek. The new R&D facility will be located within a university being developed through a partnership between the University of Newcastle, University of NSW and University of Wollongong (the NUW Alliance), Western Sydney University and the NSW Government.
The Premier and the Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres are on a trade mission to the UK and Germany from August 11 to 16.
